From Father Michael Durning

Dear Parish Family,

Tomorrow, February 2, marks the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. In the “old days” this signaled the end of the Christmas season and a return to “ordinary time”. Just under the surface of the Presentation is the following theme: Just as Jesus was presented in the Temple, so may we have the grace to present ourselves to the Father, having been made pure in the blood of Jesus Christ. In the midst of all the claims that are made upon our time, it may help to remember the account that we will one day make to the Father. When that day comes, it will be the power of Jesus that will admit us into Godly fellowship. As the Prayer for tomorrow says:

Almighty and everliving God, we humbly pray that, as your only-begotten Son was this day presented in the temple, so we may be presented to you with pure and clean hearts by Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Sincerely,
Fr. Michael

ASH WEDNESDAY: Coming up fast is Ash Wednesday on February 14 (aka Valentine’s Day). We will be having two services: 12 noon and 7:00pm. See you at one of them.

SHROVE TUESDAY: Also around the corner is Shrove Tuesday (day before Ash Wednesday) on February 13. Plan on a Pancake Dinner. More details to follow.

CONFIRMATION: On February 18 Bishop Michael Garrison will be here to confirm three of our congregants: Linda Lobo, Gail Clay, Bruce Simington.

FUNERALS: The Lord has chosen to take home the following loved ones:Jane Read, wife of Todd Read, service on February 3 at 11:00am;Helena Stephens, service on February 10 at 11:00am.

M.O.N.: There will be a MON meeting on Saturday, Feb. 3, at 9:00am in the Parish Hall. Discussion of Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner and other events to be scheduled. Coffee and other food samplings to share. COME ONE, COME ALL! We will need your help.

ANNUAL DONOR STATEMENTS Your 2023 annual donor (giving) statements are now available in the Parish Hall.

FLOWER FESTIVAL ARRANGERS: Mandatory meeting for all flower arrangers only for the Flower Festival on February 4. You can either come to the one after the 8:00am service or after the 10:15am service…..your choice.

CALLING ALL SINGERS Martha would like to invite you to sing in the 2024 English Tea & Flower Festival Concert at the Church of the Nativity! Music and study parts will be available shortly for self-study ahead of rehearsals. Rehearsal dates: Thursday, Feb. 15 and 22, 6:30pm-8:00pm. The performance will be on Saturday, February 24 at noon with a warm up time at 11:15am. To RSVP email Martha at marthalopezsoprano@gmail.com or call/text 941-284-7409. Many thanks!

FRIDAY BIBLE STUDY: Bible Study continues tomorrow, Friday, February 2, at 10:00am, in the Library. This week’s study continues with Lesson #4, focusing on Psalm 46:1-11. ALL are welcome!!